Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 1-0 away victory against Alaves in the 31st week of La Liga, despite both teams having a player sent off. With this win, Real reached 66 points, maintaining a 4-point gap with league leaders Barcelona. Alaves, with 30 points, remains just one point above the relegation zone.

Under Carlo Ancelotti’s management, Real Madrid ensured their title race remained alive before shifting focus to their upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg at Santiago Bernabeu.

The first half ended 1-0 in favor of Los Blancos, but the match was overshadowed by Kylian Mbappe’s unexpected red card in the 38th minute. Real, who had taken the lead through Eduardo Camavinga’s stunning strike in the 34th minute, were suddenly reduced to 10 men after the French star was shown a straight red.

Real started cautiously, controlling midfield possession early on. In the 9th minute, Arda Guler went down in Alaves’ penalty area after a reckless challenge by goalkeeper Jesus Owono, but the referee waved play on. In the 18th minute, Rodrygo dazzled with his footwork before firing a dangerous shot that Owono parried for a corner. This corner led to a Marco Asensio goal in the 20th minute, but VAR ruled it out for a foul, keeping the score level.

Finally, in the 34th minute, Real broke the deadlock. Federico Valverde played a clever pass to Eduardo Camavinga outside the box, and the French midfielder unleashed a spectacular left-footed curler into the top corner, giving Real a 1-0 lead.

However, the defining moment came just four minutes later when Kylian Mbappe committed a dangerous late tackle on Antonio Blanco. Referee Cesar Soto Grado, after reviewing VAR, issued a straight red card. Mbappe left the pitch without protest, leaving Real in a precarious situation. This was Mbappe’s fourth career red card, delivering a major blow to the team.

The second half ended with the same 1-0 scoreline but was equally dramatic. Alaves’ Manuel Sanchez was sent off in the 70th minute, leveling the playing field at 10 vs. 10.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Real defended resolutely under Davide Ancelotti’s (standing in for the suspended Carlo Ancelotti) tactical adjustments, preserving their slender lead. Alaves failed to capitalize on their temporary advantage and missed their chance to equalize.

Goal Summary:

Alaves 0-1 Real Madrid

Federico Valverde found Camavinga in space outside the box. The French midfielder struck a beautiful left-footed curler into the top corner, silencing the Mendizorrotza Stadium.